College Evaluation Checklist

Money matters

• Compare financial aid summaries received from colleges and not just the sticker price, but the actual costs (tuition minus scholarships, grants, etc). 
• How much will it cost to travel to the college and does the student plan on traveling back home over the breaks? 
• Does the student plan on working? Is work-study offered? Are there jobs on campus or close to campus if there isn’t any work-study?  

Community

• Can the student picture themselves on the campus after the college visit? 
• Is there a variety of student organizations and events happening that align with the student’s interests? 
• What does the college do to create a sense of community? 

Campus

• Does the student care about campus amenities? Fitness center? Dining hall? Recreation opportunities? 
• Will the student’s residence hall be close to the hub of campus and to their classes?
• If not, is there campus transportation or does the student have a car?  

Faculty

• What’s the percentage of faculty who have a terminal (the highest level) of degrees in their field? 
• What’s the faculty to student ratio? 
• Is the college known for faculty mentorship with its undergraduate students? 

Location

• Does the student want the college to be secondary to the hustle and bustle of city life or is the student interested in immersion in academic and student life? 
• What preconceptions does the student have about urban, city, or rural colleges?
• Does the college provide access to hands-on (off-campus) opportunities that align with the student’s interests?